Over twenty years ago there were two little girls in my preschool class, Michelle and Nicole. Sisters. Michelle was full of heart. She cried at The Runaway Bunny. She was always the star in our plays. I think her most memorable performance was Rapunzel, wearing a long knitted scarf as her hair. Nicole was ever-cheerful. She asked questions all the time, and constantly had a cluster of friends. Lunchtime conversations were always fascinating, thanks to Nicole.
Together, these two sisters embodied joy and heart and character.
Their mom, Anne, loved to bake. She came into the class and helped the children make sticky buns. That was really fun! Talk about a hands-on activity… the best. Then, Christmas came along. Anne and the girls showed up at my door on Christmas Eve with a delivery of sticky buns. I was so touched! And, oh were they ever good.
The girls grew older, too old for my preschool class. Yet, the following year another Christmas Eve delivery of sticky buns arrived at my door. And the following year, and the next, and on and on, and again this year:
As the years went by, we kept in touch about school, then the worry and excitement of college applications and acceptances. Then, there were new jobs, moving away from home, and changing jobs. Life was constantly changing and evolving, and we shared those stories together like family. Christmas Eve and the delivery of sticky buns became an annual get-together. We spend the evening sharing stories of loss and sorrow, health worries, joyous moments in life, and belly laughing over the funny, little things.
Always the best Christmas Eve.
My preschool children over twenty years ago are now like a family to me. In the words of their mother, Woo Hoo!
Jennie
A Teacher's Reflections 
What a heartwarming story!
Thank you! I’m glad you liked it.
You’re welcome, Jennie.
How lovely!!!
Thank you, Ritu! 🙂
What a special story about a priceless friendship, and you get sticky buns too! Merry Christmas, Jennie! – Susan
Thank you, Susan. Lucky me, all the way around! 😀
Great story
Glad you liked it, John. Thank you.
Thats beautiful, Jennie.
Thanks so much, Sue.
What a wonderful Christmas story. Isn’t it great to watch these two sisters grow up and remember you with sticky buns every Christmas? The true meaning in my mind.
Thank you, Darlene. Yes, it really is wonderful. The true meaning for sure!
This is so heartwarming and wonderful, Jennie! 😄
Thank you, Sarah! ❤️
What a lovely story! The sticky buns look wonderful, too! 🙂
Thank you, Sarah! 🙂
Wow, what a wonderful tradition! And YOU are an amazing teacher!
Thanks so much for your kind words, Luanne. It is quite a wonderful tradition. 🙂
Great family picture – and from one ‘cooking mom’ volunteer to another, “Woo Hoo”!
Thanks, Laura. You said it well! 😀
Awww, this was such a sweet (and sticky) post full of joy, love and memories of sticking together. Hugs, Robin ✨ 💞 🌟
Hugs to you, Robin. We’ll stick together, too. 🙂
Woo hoo! indeed, Jennie. The power to change lives is in your hands. They touch our hearts as much as we touch theirs.
Indeed they do, Norah. We are the lucky ones. 🙂
Such an admirable legacy of your love for the children, and that love returned.
As well as that, the buns look delicious!
Best wishes, Pete.
Thank you, Pete. And, the buns are definitely delicious. Best to you.
You obviously made as huge an impact on the mom and daughters with your teaching as you have made on us here. How wonderful that you were able to stay in touch and watch them grow into wonderful young women.
Thank you, Marlene. Your words and thoughts are always so kind and much appreciated. It is amazing that the girls and their mom have stayed in touch for all these years. It’s become quite a friendship, and that’s so nice. I have loved watching them grow over the years.
Jennie… that has to be the very definition of fulfilling! You warmed my heart on this frigid day. Thanks for sharing this delightful story. Have a thriving Thursday!
It was definitely fulfilling. So glad you enjoyed the post, Teagan. Stay warm. The high today will be 9 degrees!
Burrrr….. now that’s just wrong… 9 degrees for the high? Sending virtual hot chocolate hugs. Whipped cream on top too. 😀
Yum! 😋
You have to be a great teacher and friend. Following you now.
Thanks so much!
Jennie, what a wonderful story and so happy you are still close to these two girls! You’re obviously an inspiration and mentor/friend to them for life. And it all started with sticky buns! A very Happy New Year to you and your family. xx
Thank you, Annika. I’m lucky to have these friendships created in my classroom many years ago. And, this is one of many. The sticky buns make it all the more memorable and sweeter (pun intended). Best to you!
Bless you Jennie. You are so deserving of annual sticky buns. Thanx for sharing! Love the pic of you and your ‘preschoolers’.
Thanks, Ren!
Aw, this is so great. Making memories and traditions is such an important part of life. Enjoy your sticky buns (although I have a feeling they’re all gone…)!
Thanks so much, Marcia. Yes, they’re all gone. 😀
How beautiful that is Jennie. You are so appreciated! 🙂
Thank you so much, Debby!
🙂 🙂